In This World…

It seems I am obsessed with the problems I face. Lately, I have even begun to chide myself regarding my attitude toward the nature of things. Things just can’t be as bad as I perceive them. Materially, I’ve been given so much. Spiritually, God has blessed me. Yet, there is this overarching feeling and perception of trouble. I see trouble. I hear of trouble. I witness trouble in my friends and family’s lives. I experience trouble of my own. Trouble has become a life companion and Mr. T and I are still learning how to get along. He, Trouble, seems to be less willing and/or able to “learn”. He holds his ground. I, on the other hand, am learning to bend, be malleable (big word meaning “change or die”)

Now, as the picture of the average middle class American, I realize that trouble is in some respects relative. My troubles wouldn’t even compare with some of the troubles faced by others who live in less favorable conditions. Even today, millions are living the lives of refugees from war and are simply hoping to be able to eat for a day.  Millions in Haiti are groping for sustenance and life.  So, I am not saying, “Poor me. My life is a living hell.” By no means am I saying this. I am simply observing that each and every life on this planet, including my own blessed life, is visited, even accompanied daily, by Trouble.

For me, as I look back on my writings and musings, I find myself concentrating on the subject a lot. Truly, I’ve seen some tough things. I won’t delineate these but you can trust me whenever I say that I have encountered Trouble and even now find myself walking with him or it – however you want to look at trouble. It is inevitable in the life of a human. The truth is –  Trouble happens.

In light of this it is sad to think that most walk without the promise of Christ – a promise that gives perspective and strength. Most walk in the sadness of knowing that Trouble is just around the corner and there is nothing that can be done about it. It will come and we must simply grin and bear it. Christ, however, makes a different promise for those who trust Him.

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

This has to be one of the most significant statements of encouragement that Jesus ever made and continues to give to those who will trust Him. Trouble is a fact of this world, yet the promise of Christ is just as solid.  Jesus has overcome this world. There is nothing relative about this truth.  It is absolute and applies in every situation.  Worldly Trouble is left impotent. It is short lived and puny. It no longer walks with a capital “T”. trouble is a loser. Jesus has overcome.

More and more I am blessed by the seemingly simple promises of scripture and of Christ. Jesus can negate an entire lifetime of pain and stress with one simple sentence. He is slaying His enemies with the Sword of His Mouth. It is two-edged, cutting both ways as it swings the Truth and Strength of God.

Take heart my brothers and sisters, Jesus Christ HAS OVERCOME the world.

Much love,

Wen